Citing concerns over the COVID-19 virus, promoters of Milwaukee’s Trainfest have cancelled the November 2020 show. Additionally, there will be no World’s Greatest Hobby on Tour shows in 2021.
In a release to the industry, WGH showrunners noted many municipalities and venues aren’t allowing events involving large gatherings. WGH shows typically draw 15-30,000 people, making them subject to some of the most severe restrictions. Its 2020 show in Chantilly, Va. drew more than 31,000.
In the case of Trainfest, one of the largest all-scale model railroad shows in the nation, its usual venue currently houses emergency hospital equipment related to the pandemic. Promoters say there could be a virtual show this year, and plans are being made for an in-person show in 2021.
Train Show Inc. is planning to have both Greenberg Train Shows and Great Train Shows resume in 2020. Promoters say WGH shows will return in 2022, conditions permitting.
